Comfort and Convenience
Preferred seating position varies with height, leg length and habit: some drivers sit upright and close, others further back. Passengers have their own preferences too, which is worth settling before a long stretch begins.
Safety and Driver Assistance
If the car is unfamiliar, whether newly bought, borrowed or hired, a stationary run-through of the main switches and warning lights is worth the time. Knowing where things are removes one distraction from the journey.
Multimedia and Connectivity
Taking calls hands-free, where the car supports it, keeps both hands available. Music is a separate matter: downloading playlists in advance means listening continues where mobile coverage thins out.